Maria José Cristerna, known as the “real-life vampire,” has captured global attention with her bold body modifications, including extensive tattoos, piercings, and implants. However, her journey is much deeper than aesthetics; it’s a story of resilience, self-expression, and personal transformation. Cristerna, who holds the Guinness World Record for the most body modifications (50 in total), began her transformation at 14 as a way to reclaim herself after enduring a decade-long abusive marriage.

Her body art, including eye pigmentation and painful arm implants, symbolizes her journey toward self-love. “Art runs through my veins,” she says, viewing her body as a canvas for reclaiming her identity. While proud of her unique look, Cristerna advises young people to think carefully about body modifications, emphasizing their permanence: “You have to love it and defend it your whole life.”

Despite mixed reactions to her appearance, Cristerna remains unfazed by others’ opinions. Focused on her goal of covering her body entirely in tattoos, she continues her transformation as a message of self-love. “The only way to escape from violence and abuse is by loving yourself,” she shares, underscoring the power of self-acceptance and personal freedom.